London Fashion Week opens amid Brexit uncertainties

by THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Exhibition assistant Monique Ricketts puts finishing touches to a display by Egyptian fashion designers at Somerset House in London, Thursday, Feb. 16, 2017. The designs from 26 countries are displayed at the International Fashion Showcase 2017, presented by the British Council and British Fashion Council, supported by Mercedes Benz. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

LONDON (AP) — Models and fashion editors descended on Britain's capital from snowy New York for the start of London Fashion Week on Friday, a whirlwind of catwalk shows that include Burberry, Versus, Roksanda and dozens of other designers.

The fashion showcase kicked off Friday in a new location on the Strand in central London.

Like other business sectors, Britain's fashion industry is concerned about how Brexit will impact trade.

"I'd like to take this opportunity ... to remind the government that retaining our competitive position isn't straightforward and we hope that you'll listen and understand our concerns and our needs when we talk to you about visas, talent, tariffs, and IP (intellectual property)," said Caroline Rush, chief executive of the British Fashion Council.

As always, the shows will include a mix of established designers and newcomers. There is also a broad array of international talent on display at presentations at Somerset House, which includes designers from India, Guatemala, Slovakia and other parts of the world.

There will be 51 catwalk shows and 31 presentations vying for the attention of an audience of buyers, bloggers, celebrities and fashion fans.